Health experts have raised concerns over the rising threat of noise pollution from unregulated traffic, calling for immediate government action.
The issue was discussed during a seminar at Civil Hospital Karachi on Friday, held in collaboration with Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) to mark World Hearing Day.
Dr. Zeba Ahmed, head of the ENT department, stressed that excessive noise from traffic and industrial workplaces is a serious form of pollution.
She warned that prolonged exposure could lead to hearing impairments, while also highlighting the dangers of excessive mobile phone use, Bluetooth devices, and earbuds emitting radiation.
During the seminar, medical professionals discussed common ear-related diseases, including Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM), which has led to 100 surgeries at Civil Hospital between January 2024 and March 2025.
Experts stressed that delayed treatment of ear pain or inflammation often results in permanent hearing loss.
Dr. Ahmed underlined the importance of early intervention and preventive measures recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). She urged families to promote hearing care awareness at home.
“Training and awareness about hearing care should start within households,” she said.
Research presented at the seminar revealed that noise pollution is often overlooked in Karachi, despite its serious health consequences.
Studies indicate that every five-decibel increase in noise levels raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 34 percent.
Experts called on authorities to enforce strict noise control policies and urged citizens to take steps to protect their hearing before long-term damage occurs.
